Texas gardening presents unique challenges with its intense summer heat, unpredictable weather patterns, and varying soil conditions across the state. Many gardeners struggle to find flowers that can handle the scorching sun and high temperatures while still providing vibrant color throughout the growing season.
Choosing the right heat-tolerant flowers is essential for creating a thriving Texas garden that blooms beautifully despite extreme weather conditions. From native Texas wildflowers like bluebonnets and Indian blankets to drought-resistant perennials such as lantana and salvia, you’ll discover flowers that not only survive but flourish in the Lone Star State’s demanding climate. These resilient plants offer low-maintenance options for both experienced gardeners and beginners looking to create stunning landscapes that can withstand Texas heat.
1. Lantana (Lantana camara)
Lantana is your go-to flower for Texas heat. This tough little plant laughs at scorching temperatures and keeps blooming when other flowers give up.
You’ll love the vibrant flower clusters that come in yellow, orange, pink, red, and white. The Texas native variety is especially hardy and changes colors as it ages, going from yellow to orange to red.
Plant your lantana in full sun for best results. It needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to produce those gorgeous blooms.
Water sparingly once established. Lantana is drought-tolerant and actually prefers drier conditions over soggy soil.
You can plant it in almost any soil type. Poor soil doesn’t bother lantana at all, making it perfect for challenging Texas landscapes.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms. Pinch off the faded clusters regularly throughout the growing season.
Your garden will attract butterflies and hummingbirds with lantana. These pollinators love the nectar-rich flowers and will visit frequently.
Space plants 2-3 feet apart as they spread naturally. Lantana forms a nice ground cover or works well in containers and borders.
2. Plumbago (Plumbago auriculata)
Plumbago is a fantastic choice for your Texas garden. This heat-loving plant produces beautiful clusters of sky-blue or white flowers that bloom throughout the summer months.
You’ll love how well plumbago handles the intense Texas heat and humidity. It actually thrives in full sun conditions that would stress other plants.
The delicate-looking flowers attract butterflies to your garden. Despite their appearance, these blooms are surprisingly tough and resilient.
Planting Tips
Plant your plumbago in well-draining soil during spring. Choose a spot that gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for best flowering.
Space plants about 3-4 feet apart since they can spread and get bushy. This gives them room to grow without overcrowding.
Care Requirements
Water deeply but infrequently once established. Plumbago is quite drought-tolerant after its first growing season.
Prune lightly in late winter to maintain shape and encourage new growth. You can also deadhead spent flowers to promote continuous blooming.
Feed with a balanced fertilizer in spring. Too much nitrogen can reduce flowering, so don’t overdo it.
3. Golden Columbine (Aquilegia chrysantha)
Golden columbine brings stunning yellow blooms to your Texas garden while handling heat better than most columbine varieties. This native Southwest perennial produces bright golden-yellow flowers up to 3 inches across with distinctive long spurs.
The ‘Texas Gold’ cultivar offers exceptional heat tolerance for shady spots in your landscape. It grows about 2 feet tall and wide, making it perfect for smaller garden spaces.
You’ll want to plant golden columbine in dappled shade rather than full sun. While it tolerates heat well, it still prefers some protection from the intense Texas afternoon sun.
Water your columbine regularly, especially during the hottest summer months. This cool-season perennial needs consistent moisture to thrive in Texas conditions.
Plant golden columbine in well-draining soil enriched with organic matter. The roots don’t like sitting in waterlogged conditions, so good drainage is essential.
Expect blooms for 3-4 weeks in early spring before the extreme heat arrives. The attractive foliage provides interest throughout the growing season even after flowering ends.
Golden columbine works well in woodland gardens or naturalized areas where it can spread naturally. It’s one of the most durable columbine options for Texas gardeners.
4. Texas Yellow Rose (Rosa × harrisoni)
The Texas Yellow Rose is a tough, heat-loving beauty that’s perfect for your Lone Star State garden. This hardy shrub rose can handle intense summer heat and drought conditions better than most other rose varieties.
You’ll love how this rose blooms with bright yellow, semi-double flowers in late spring. The blooms appear once per season but put on quite a show when they do.
Plant your Texas Yellow Rose in full sun to partial shade. It prefers well-draining soil but isn’t too picky about soil type. Space plants about 4-6 feet apart to allow for good air circulation.
Watering is pretty straightforward – give it a deep drink once or twice a week during hot spells. This rose is naturally drought-tolerant once established, so don’t overwater.
Pruning should be done right after flowering ends. Remove any dead or damaged canes and shape the bush as needed. This rose blooms on old wood, so avoid heavy pruning in fall or winter.
You can expect this rose to reach 6-8 feet tall and wide at maturity. It’s incredibly low-maintenance and rarely bothers with pest or disease issues in Texas heat.
5. Red Yucca (Hesperaloe parviflora)
Red Yucca isn’t actually a true yucca, but it’s one of the toughest plants you can grow in Texas. This native perennial produces stunning red or orange tubular flowers on tall, arching stalks that can reach up to 5 feet high.
The blooms appear from spring through fall, creating a spectacular display that hummingbirds absolutely love. Your Red Yucca will form clumps of narrow, sword-like leaves that stay green year-round.
Planting Tips
Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil for best results. You can plant Red Yucca in spring or fall when temperatures are milder. Space plants about 3-4 feet apart to allow for their mature spread.
Care Instructions
Water deeply but infrequently once established – this plant thrives on neglect. Remove spent flower stalks to encourage more blooms throughout the season.
Red Yucca tolerates poor soil, extreme heat, and drought conditions. It’s perfect for xeriscaping, rock gardens, or any low-maintenance landscape where you want reliable color and texture.
6. Mexican Hat (Ratibida columnifera)
Mexican Hat is a fantastic wildflower that’s perfectly at home in Texas gardens. This native beauty can handle whatever the Texas sun throws at it.
You’ll love how this drought-tolerant plant grows up to three feet tall with distinctive cone-shaped flowers. The blooms have a unique hat-like appearance that gives the plant its common name.
Planting Tips
Plant Mexican Hat in spring after the last frost. Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil since this flower thrives in full sun conditions.
Seeds can be directly sown in your garden bed. Space plants about 12-18 inches apart to give them room to spread.
Care Requirements
Watering is minimal once established – this plant actually prefers dry conditions. Overwatering can harm Mexican Hat more than drought.
The plant adapts well to various soil types, including poor soils. You won’t need to fertilize much since it’s naturally hardy.
Deadheading spent blooms encourages more flowers throughout the growing season. Mexican Hat often self-seeds, giving you more plants for next year without extra effort.
7. Bluebonnet (Lupinus texensis)
The bluebonnet is Texas’ official state flower for good reason. This hardy wildflower naturally blankets prairies and roadsides across the state with its distinctive blue spikes.
You’ll love how drought-tolerant bluebonnets are once established. They’re built to handle Texas heat and dry conditions with their deep taproot system.
Plant bluebonnet seeds in fall between October and December. They need a cold period to germinate properly, so winter chilling is essential for spring blooms.
Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil for best results. These flowers don’t like wet feet and will struggle in heavy clay or waterlogged areas.
Scatter seeds directly in your garden rather than starting transplants. Bluebonnets have long taproots that don’t transplant well once established.
Water lightly after planting, then let nature take over. Once sprouted, they rarely need supplemental watering except during extreme drought.
Keep in mind that bluebonnets can be toxic to pets and children if ingested. Plant them in areas where curious mouths won’t be tempted to taste them.
These annuals will self-seed if you let the pods mature and drop naturally.
8. Indian Blanket (Gaillardia pulchella)
Indian blanket is your go-to flower for scorching Texas summers. This native wildflower actually gets better when temperatures soar past 100 degrees.
You’ll love the vibrant red and yellow blooms that look like woven blankets. The flowers create a stunning carpet effect in your garden from late spring through fall.
Plant your Indian blanket in full sun for best results. It thrives in poor, well-draining soil and doesn’t need rich conditions to flourish.
Water sparingly once established. This drought-tolerant flower actually prefers dry conditions and can handle extended periods without irrigation.
You can direct sow seeds in spring after the last frost. Scatter them on prepared soil and lightly rake them in for good contact.
Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering. This simple maintenance keeps your plants producing colorful flowers all season long.
Your Indian blanket will attract butterflies and native bees to your garden. It’s perfect for wildlife-friendly landscapes and pollinator gardens.
The plant typically grows 12-18 inches tall and spreads naturally. It works well in borders, wildflower meadows, or mixed perennial beds.
9. Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta)
Black-eyed Susans are perfect for Texas gardens with their bright yellow petals and dark centers. These cheerful natives can handle your state’s intense heat and blazing sun without breaking a sweat.
You’ll love how these hardy perennials reach 2-3 feet tall and bloom consistently from July through October. They’re drought-tolerant once established, making them ideal for water-wise landscaping.
Plant your black-eyed Susans in full sun for the best performance. They prefer well-drained soil but aren’t too picky about soil conditions.
For planting, space them about 12-18 inches apart in spring after the last frost. Water regularly during their first growing season to help roots establish.
Keep your plants blooming longer by deadheading spent flowers regularly. This simple task encourages continuous flowering throughout the growing season.
These Texas natives attract bees, butterflies, and birds to your garden. They’re also excellent cut flowers that bring sunshine indoors.
You can grow black-eyed Susans in zones 3-9, but they particularly thrive in Texas’s zone 8b climate. They self-seed readily, giving you more plants for free next year.
10. Esperanza (Yellow Bells) – Tecoma stans
Esperanza brings sunshine to your Texas garden with its bright golden trumpet-shaped flowers. This heat-loving shrub blooms all season long, making it perfect for the intense Texas sun.
You’ll love how drought-tolerant this plant becomes once established. It thrives in full sun and handles Texas heat like a champ.
Plant your Esperanza in spring or early summer when soil warms up. Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil for best results.
This moderate grower can reach up to six feet tall in ideal conditions. It shows good disease resistance, so you won’t need to fuss over it much.
Water regularly during establishment, then reduce frequency as the plant matures. Esperanza appreciates fertile, organically rich soil but adapts to various conditions.
Pruning spent blooms encourages more flowers throughout the growing season. This simple maintenance keeps your plant looking its best.
The fragrant yellow blooms attract pollinators to your garden. You can use Esperanza in mass plantings or as a striking container accent for patios and entryways.
Winter hardiness varies by location in Texas. In colder zones, treat it as an annual or protect during freezes.
11. Mexican Heather (Cuphea hyssopifolia)
Mexican Heather is a fantastic choice for Texas gardens, thriving in the state’s warm climate with minimal frost. This low-growing perennial brings tons of tiny, colorful flowers to your landscape.
Despite its name, this plant isn’t actually from Mexico. It’s a reliable, old-fashioned ornamental that’s been recognized as a Texas Superstar for its performance in hot conditions.
You’ll love how Mexican Heather handles full sun and heat while staying compact and tidy. The plant produces masses of small purple, pink, or white flowers that bloom continuously through the growing season.
Planting Tips: Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil. Space plants 12-18 inches apart to allow for proper air circulation and growth.
Care Requirements: Water regularly during establishment, then reduce frequency as the plant becomes drought tolerant. Mexican Heather needs minimal fertilization once established.
You can easily shape this plant with light pruning to maintain its form. It works great in containers, borders, or as a colorful groundcover in your Texas garden.
The flowers attract pollinators, making it both beautiful and beneficial for your local ecosystem.
12. Salvia Greggii (Autumn Sage)
Autumn sage is perfect for your Texas garden. This native perennial handles extreme heat and drought like a champ.
You’ll love the tubular flowers that bloom from spring through fall. They come in red, pink, white, and purple colors that hummingbirds can’t resist.
Plant your autumn sage in full sun for the best blooms. It tolerates partial shade but won’t flower as heavily.
Make sure you provide well-draining soil. This plant hates wet feet and thrives in rocky or sandy conditions.
Water deeply but infrequently once established. Your salvia greggii will actually perform better with less water than too much.
Prune your plants back by one-third in late summer. This gives you a fresh flush of fall blooms when other flowers are fading.
Space plants about 18 inches apart since they grow 2-3 feet tall and wide. They work great in rock gardens, borders, or xeriscaping.
You can grow autumn sage in zones 6-9, covering all of Texas. It’s semi-woody and comes back reliably each year with minimal care needed.
13. Firecracker Penstemon (Penstemon eatonii)
This native Texas wildflower brings vibrant orange-red blooms to your garden from spring through summer. You’ll love how the tubular flowers attract hummingbirds and bees to your landscape.
Firecracker penstemon thrives in full sun and handles Texas heat like a champ. The drought-tolerant perennial actually prefers dry conditions once established.
Plant your firecracker penstemon in well-draining soil to prevent root rot. Sandy or rocky soil works perfectly for this desert native.
Water sparingly during the first growing season to help roots establish. After that, you can rely on natural rainfall in most Texas regions.
Avoid over-fertilizing this low-maintenance plant. Too much fertilizer can actually reduce flowering and shorten the plant’s lifespan.
The sprawling stems grow 12-24 inches tall with lance-shaped green leaves. Multiple flower spikes emerge from each plant, creating a stunning display.
You’ll find this perennial perfect for xeriscaping and pollinator gardens. It pairs well with other native Texas plants and requires minimal care once established.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms throughout the growing season. This simple step keeps your firecracker penstemon looking its best.
14. Desert Marigold (Baileya multiradiata)
Desert marigold is your go-to choice for adding bright yellow blooms to hot Texas gardens. This cheerful perennial produces daisy-like flowers from spring through fall, giving you consistent color when other plants struggle.
You’ll love how this drought-tolerant native thrives in full sun and sandy or gravelly soil. Once established, it needs very little water and actually prefers dry conditions over moist soil.
Plant desert marigold in well-draining soil to prevent root rot. Choose a sunny spot where it can spread into perfect mounds of yellow flowers. The plant will self-sow in favorable conditions but stays well-behaved.
Care is minimal once your desert marigold is established. Avoid overwatering, as this can damage the roots. The plant handles extreme heat and drought naturally.
For stunning combinations, pair desert marigold with other drought-tolerant plants like penstemons, agaves, or purple sage. These create low-water gardens that thrive in Texas heat.
Keep in mind that desert marigold is toxic to livestock if you have animals grazing nearby. Otherwise, this carefree wildflower brings year-round beauty to your desert-style landscape.
15. Bougainvillea (Bougainvillea spectabilis)
Bougainvillea is a superstar in Texas gardens thanks to its vibrant, papery flowers and incredible heat tolerance. You’ll find these beauties in pink, red, orange, and purple varieties.
This tough plant actually thrives in hot, dry conditions that would stress other flowers. Once established, it needs minimal watering and can handle Texas summers like a champ.
Plant your bougainvillea in full sun for the best flower production. It loves well-draining soil and doesn’t mind poor soil conditions either.
Water deeply but infrequently once established. This encourages deep root growth and makes the plant more drought-resistant.
Pruning is important for keeping your bougainvillea in shape. Trim it after flowering to maintain size and encourage new growth.
The colorful parts you see aren’t actually flowers – they’re specialized leaves called bracts. The tiny white centers are the real flowers.
Be careful when handling bougainvillea since it has sharp thorns. Wear gloves when pruning or planting to protect your hands.
This plant works great as a climbing vine on fences or trellises. You can also grow it as a shrub with regular pruning.
16. Autumn Sage (Salvia greggii)
Autumn sage is a fantastic choice for your Texas garden. This perennial powerhouse handles scorching heat and drought conditions like a champ.
You’ll love the vibrant colors this plant brings to your landscape. The flowers come in shades of red, pink, white, and purple, blooming from spring through fall.
Plant your autumn sage in spring or fall when temperatures are milder. Choose a spot with well-draining soil since this plant doesn’t like wet feet.
Full sun to partial shade works best for optimal growth. Your autumn sage will actually perform better in intense Texas heat than in cooler conditions.
Water regularly during the first growing season to establish strong roots. Once established, you can cut back significantly since it’s very drought tolerant.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms throughout the season. Prune back by one-third in late winter to maintain shape and promote healthy growth.
This low-maintenance perennial attracts butterflies and hummingbirds to your garden. It’s also deer resistant, making it perfect for rural Texas properties.
17. Turk’s Cap (Malvaviscus arboreus)
Turk’s Cap is a fantastic native Texas shrub that’ll solve your shade gardening problems. This tough plant handles both scorching heat and drought conditions like a champ.
You’ll love how this beauty grows 4 to 6 feet tall and spreads 3 to 4 feet wide. It’s completely winter-hardy throughout Texas, so you won’t worry about cold snaps.
Plant your Turk’s Cap in spring to give it time to establish before summer heat hits. It thrives in morning sun with afternoon shade, though full sun will fade the foliage to lighter green.
This low-maintenance shrub isn’t picky about soil type but prefers well-drained conditions. Once established, it’s drought-tolerant but performs better with occasional watering.
You’ll get the best results with 4 to 6 hours of daily sun and soil pH between 6.1 and 7.8. The plant has excellent disease resistance, making it perfect for beginners.
Texas A&M selected Turk’s Cap as a Texas Superstar plant in 2011 for good reason. It delivers reliable performance year after year with minimal care required.
18. Mexican Flame Vine (Senecio confusus)
Mexican Flame Vine brings serious heat to your Texas garden with its bright orange blooms. This fast-growing climber produces daisy-like flowers that look like tiny flames dancing in the breeze.
You’ll love how quickly this vine covers fences, trellises, and pergolas. It grows rapidly in warm weather and can bloom year-round in warmer zones.
The bright orange flowers are magnets for butterflies, especially Monarchs during migration. Hummingbirds and bees also flock to these nectar-rich blooms.
Plant your Mexican Flame Vine in full sun with well-drained soil. Once established, it tolerates drought conditions well, making it perfect for Texas heat.
You can easily propagate this vine through cuttings or seeds. It’s practically maintenance-free once it gets going.
The vine stays evergreen in zones 9 and above, but may act as an annual in cooler areas. In Texas heat, expect continuous blooms throughout the growing season.
Give it something to climb and watch it transform bare vertical spaces into walls of fiery color. Your pollinators will thank you for this heat-loving addition.
19. Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea)
Purple coneflower is one of the toughest perennials you can grow in Texas. This native beauty handles scorching summer heat and drought like a champ.
The daisy-shaped flowers feature bright purple-pink petals surrounding a prominent orange center cone. Blooms appear from June through fall, giving you months of continuous color.
You’ll love how low-maintenance this plant is. It thrives in full sun and actually prefers poor to average soil over rich, fertilized ground.
Plant your purple coneflowers in spring after the last frost. Space them 18-24 inches apart to allow for proper air circulation.
Water regularly during the first growing season to establish strong roots. Once established, they’re extremely drought tolerant and rarely need supplemental watering.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms, or leave them for winter interest and bird food. The seed heads attract goldfinches and other wildlife.
These perennials spread naturally over time, creating beautiful colonies. You can divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring to propagate new plants.
Purple coneflowers work great in wildflower gardens, borders, and prairie-style plantings throughout Texas.
20. Gaillardia (Gaillardia grandiflora)
Gaillardia, commonly called blanket flower, is a Texas native that absolutely loves the heat. These cheerful perennials produce daisy-like blooms in vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow from spring through fall.
You’ll love how these drought-tolerant beauties handle scorching temperatures up to 100°F. The flowers often feature eye-catching bi-colored patterns that won’t fade in intense summer heat.
Plant your gaillardia in full sun locations where they’ll receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. More sun is even better for maximum blooming. They prefer well-draining soil and can tolerate poor, sandy conditions.
Water them deeply but infrequently once established. These plants are extremely drought-tolerant and actually prefer drier conditions over wet soil.
Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage continuous flowering throughout the growing season. This simple maintenance keeps your plants looking neat and producing fresh flowers.
Gaillardia typically grows 12-24 inches tall and spreads about 18 inches wide. They’re perfect for borders, wildflower gardens, or containers. Butterflies and bees absolutely love these native flowers, making them excellent pollinator plants for your Texas garden.
21. Zinnia (Zinnia elegans)
Zinnias are perfect for Texas gardeners who want vibrant color without the fuss. These South American natives absolutely love the heat and can handle temperatures that make other flowers wilt.
You can plant zinnia seeds directly in your garden and see blooms in just 8 weeks. They’re incredibly fast growers that fill in quickly, naturally crowding out weeds and saving you maintenance time.
Choose from brilliant shades of red, pink, yellow, orange, and white. These cheerful flowers keep blooming all summer long, even when temperatures soar past 100°F.
Plant your zinnias in full sun with well-drained soil for best results. They won’t perform well in shade, so pick your sunniest spot. Water by hand when possible rather than overhead sprinklers.
These drought-tolerant beauties are butterfly magnets. You’ll love watching monarchs and other butterflies visit your garden throughout the growing season.
Try growing zinnias in containers on your patio or porch for up-close enjoyment. They’re low-maintenance once established and can handle Texas heat, drought, and humidity like champs.
22. Verbena (Verbena spp.)
Verbena is your go-to flower for adding vibrant color to Texas gardens. These tough little plants love the heat and won’t quit blooming even when temperatures soar.
You’ll find verbena comes in purple, pink, red, and white varieties. The ‘Superbena Purple’ cultivar is particularly impressive with its dark green fuzzy foliage and vivid purple blooms.
Plant your verbena in full sun for best results. These flowers actually prefer the intense Texas sunshine and will reward you with continuous blooms all summer long.
Water verbena regularly when first planted, but once established, it becomes quite drought tolerant. This makes it perfect for your low-maintenance Texas garden.
The flowers naturally drop from the plant without creating a mess. You won’t need to spend time deadheading to keep your garden looking neat.
Space verbena plants about 12-18 inches apart in well-draining soil. They work great in containers, garden beds, or as ground cover.
Verbena attracts butterflies and hummingbirds to your garden. The long-lasting blooms provide nectar throughout the growing season, making your outdoor space more wildlife-friendly.
23. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
Rosemary makes an excellent choice for your Texas garden, doubling as both a culinary herb and ornamental plant. This Mediterranean native absolutely loves hot, dry conditions and can handle Texas heat with ease.
You’ll appreciate rosemary’s low-maintenance nature once it gets established. The herb produces small pale blue flowers and can spread to create attractive groundcover in your landscape.
Plant rosemary in spring to give it time to establish before summer arrives. Choose a spot with well-drained soil, as this herb won’t tolerate waterlogged conditions.
Popular varieties for Texas include ‘Arp’ for its cold tolerance and robust flavor. ‘Tuscan Blue’ offers upright growth with beautiful blue blooms that attract bees to your garden.
Water sparingly once established, as rosemary prefers dry conditions. You can harvest the fragrant leaves year-round for cooking while enjoying the plant’s ornamental value.
The herb thrives in full sun and actually performs better with minimal care. Avoid overwatering or over-fertilizing, which can reduce the essential oils that give rosemary its distinctive aroma and flavor.
24. Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia)
You’ll find crape myrtle is perfectly suited for Texas heat and drought conditions. This versatile plant thrives in full sun and actually performs better when temperatures soar.
The crape myrtle produces clusters of crinkled, crepe-like flowers in white, pink, red, or purple. You can expect blooms from late spring through fall, with some varieties flowering for up to 120 days annually.
These plants range from compact 5-foot shrubs to towering 20-foot trees. You can choose the perfect size for your landscape needs.
Plant your crape myrtle in well-draining soil with full sun exposure. Water regularly during the first year to establish roots, then reduce watering as the plant becomes drought-tolerant.
You’ll appreciate that crape myrtles require minimal maintenance once established. Prune in late winter to maintain shape and remove suckers from the base.
The plant offers year-round interest with summer blooms, colorful fall foliage, and attractive exfoliating bark in winter. You’ll get maximum impact with minimal effort in your Texas garden.
25. Agave (Agave americana)
Agave is a superstar for Texas gardens. This drought-tolerant succulent thrives in extreme heat and requires minimal water once established.
Five species of agave are native to Texas. The century plant (Agave americana) is the most common variety you’ll find at nurseries. Its large, light-gray leaves create a striking architectural presence in your landscape.
These plants love full sun and well-draining soil. Plant your agave in sandy or rocky soil for best results. Poor drainage can cause root rot, so avoid clay soils or areas where water pools.
Water deeply but infrequently during the first year to establish roots. After that, natural rainfall is usually sufficient. You can water occasionally during extended dry periods, but agave prefers to stay on the dry side.
Space plants 4-6 feet apart since they can grow quite large. Remove dead or damaged leaves with sharp, clean shears. Be careful of the sharp spines when handling.
Agave produces dramatic flower spikes after many years of growth. The plant typically dies after flowering, but it often produces offsets you can replant. This tough plant handles Texas heat, drought, and occasional cold snaps with ease.
26. Cordyline (Cordyline fruticosa)
Cordyline brings tropical flair to your Texas garden with its dramatic, colorful foliage. These heat-loving plants handle the intense Texas sun like champs.
The sword-like leaves come in stunning shades of red, pink, purple, and green. Some varieties feature multiple colors in striking combinations.
Planting Tips
Plant your cordyline in well-draining soil that’s slightly acidic to neutral. Choose a spot with full sun to partial shade, though they love soaking up those hot Texas rays.
Space plants about 3-4 feet apart to give them room to spread. They can reach 6-10 feet tall depending on the variety.
Care Requirements
Water regularly during the first growing season to establish strong roots. Once established, they’re pretty drought-tolerant.
Feed with a balanced fertilizer monthly during the growing season. Remove any dead or damaged leaves to keep plants looking their best.
Cordylines are fairly low-maintenance once settled in. They rarely have pest problems and can handle those scorching summer temperatures that make other plants wilt.
These tropical beauties work great as focal points or in mixed borders where you want year-round color.
27. Texas Mountain Laurel (Sophora secundiflora)
Texas Mountain Laurel is a native evergreen shrub that produces stunning purple flower clusters in spring. The blooms smell like grape Kool-Aid, making them a favorite among gardeners and pollinators alike.
This slow-growing plant eventually reaches 15-20 feet tall, forming a small tree over time. You’ll love its drought tolerance and minimal water needs once established.
Planting Tips Plant your Texas Mountain Laurel in fall or early spring for best results. This timing allows the roots to establish before summer heat arrives. Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil.
Care Guidelines Water regularly during the first year to help establishment. After that, this tough plant handles drought conditions well. Fertilize in early spring and fall to encourage better blooming and foliage growth.
You can pair it with other heat-lovers like vitex, desert willow, and salvia for a stunning landscape combination. The evergreen foliage provides year-round structure while the fragrant spring flowers create a memorable garden feature that thrives in Texas heat.
28. Society Garlic (Tulbaghia violacea)
Society garlic brings beautiful purple blooms to your Texas garden while handling intense heat like a champ. This tough perennial thrives in zones 7-10, making it perfect for most Texas regions.
You’ll love how easy this plant is to grow. It performs best in full sun with well-drained soil but adapts to various conditions. The fragrant flowers bloom from spring through fall, giving you months of color.
Plant society garlic in average to organically rich soil for optimal growth. While it tolerates drought well, consistent moisture during growing season helps it flourish. Space plants about 12 inches apart for good air circulation.
This low-maintenance flower rarely needs special care once established. You can divide clumps every few years to create more plants. The grass-like foliage stays attractive even when not blooming.
Society garlic works great in borders, rock gardens, or containers. Its strong garlic scent actually helps repel pests from your garden. The flowers also make decent cut flowers for indoor arrangements.
Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots. After that, it becomes quite drought tolerant and perfect for Texas heat.
29. Penta (Pentas lanceolata)
Pentas are perfect for your Texas garden if you want colorful, star-shaped flowers that can handle brutal summer heat. These tough little plants bloom in pink, red, white, and purple shades.
Your pentas will thrive in full sun and actually prefer the intense Texas sunlight. They’re surprisingly resilient despite their delicate appearance.
Plant your pentas in well-draining soil after the last frost date. Space them about 12-18 inches apart to allow proper air circulation.
Water regularly but let the soil dry between waterings. These plants are fairly drought-tolerant once established, making them low-maintenance for busy gardeners.
Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering throughout the summer. This simple step keeps your plants looking fresh and promotes new growth.
Your pentas will attract hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees to your garden. The star-shaped flowers produce nectar that these pollinators love.
Feed your pentas monthly with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. This helps maintain their vibrant colors and healthy growth.
These flowers work great in containers, borders, or as bedding plants. They typically grow 18-24 inches tall and spread about the same width.
30. Texas Sage (Leucophyllum)
Texas Sage is a tough native that handles the state’s brutal heat like a champion. You’ll love its silvery-gray foliage and purple blooms that pop after summer rains.
This drought-tolerant shrub can reach 4-6 feet tall and wide. The fuzzy leaves give it a soft texture that contrasts beautifully with other garden plants.
Plant your Texas Sage in spring or fall when temperatures are milder. Choose a spot with full sun and well-draining soil since it hates wet feet.
Water deeply but infrequently once established. You can pretty much ignore it during dry spells – it actually prefers neglect over babying.
Pruning isn’t necessary, but you can shape it lightly after flowering. Avoid heavy pruning since it can reduce next year’s blooms.
Texas Sage thrives in poor, rocky soil where other plants struggle. It’s perfect for
31. Desert Willow (Chilopsis linearis)
You’ll love the desert willow for its stunning trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom from spring through fall. This Texas native produces fragrant pink tubular blooms that attract hummingbirds and butterflies to your garden.
The desert willow thrives in Texas heat and drought conditions once established. You can expect fast growth in the early years, making it perfect for quick landscape impact.
Plant your desert willow in full sun and well-draining soil. It tolerates poor soil conditions and requires minimal watering after the first year.
Regular pruning encourages more blooms and maintains the tree’s shape. You can prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
This deciduous tree works well for erosion control and hedging. You’ll appreciate its low maintenance requirements and ability to provide shade during hot Texas summers.
For best results, pair desert willow with other drought-tolerant natives like bluebonnets and Texas sage. This creates a vibrant, water-wise garden that looks great year-round.
The desert willow suits both residential yards and commercial properties. You’ll get seasonal color without excessive water use, making it ideal for sustainable Texas landscaping.
32. Agastache (Agastache spp.)
Agastache makes a perfect addition to your Texas garden with its incredible heat tolerance and drought resistance. This perennial thrives in full sun and actually performs better in hot conditions than cooler ones.
You’ll love the fragrant foliage that releases a pleasant licorice scent when brushed against. The plant produces dense clusters of tubular flowers in colors ranging from purple and pink to orange and white.
Plant your agastache in well-draining soil during spring after the last frost. Choose a sunny location where it will receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots. Once established, agastache becomes quite drought tolerant and requires minimal watering.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming throughout the growing season. The plants typically bloom from late spring through fall in Texas.
Space plants 18-24 inches apart to allow for proper air circulation. Agastache rarely needs fertilizer and actually prefers lean soil conditions.
You’ll attract butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds to your garden while keeping deer away. The plants are generally pest-free and low maintenance once established.
33. Mexican Petunia (Ruellia simplex)
Mexican Petunia is a tough perennial that loves Texas heat and humidity. You’ll get vibrant purple, pink, or white trumpet-shaped blooms all summer long.
This heat-loving plant thrives in temperatures up to 100°F without breaking a sweat. It’s incredibly drought-tolerant once established, making it perfect for hot Texas summers.
You can plant Mexican Petunia in full sun to partial shade. It adapts well to different light conditions, though it produces more blooms in sunnier spots.
Plant it in well-draining soil for best results. The plant isn’t picky about soil type but doesn’t like waterlogged conditions.
Water regularly during the first growing season to help establish roots. After that, you can reduce watering since it handles drought well.
Be aware that Mexican Petunia can spread aggressively. Consider planting it in containers or designated areas where you don’t mind it naturalizing.
You can propagate new plants easily through division or stem cuttings. This makes it simple to expand your garden or share with neighbors.
The plant works great as groundcover or in borders where you want reliable color with minimal maintenance.
34. Bottlebrush (Callistemon)
Bottlebrush plants are perfect for your Texas garden with their distinctive spiky-red blooms that look just like cleaning brushes. These tough shrubs handle intense summer heat without breaking a sweat.
You’ll love how pest and disease-resistant these plants are. They practically take care of themselves once established in your landscape.
Bees absolutely adore bottlebrush flowers, making them excellent for pollinator gardens. The bright red cylindrical blooms appear from spring through fall in Texas.
Plant your bottlebrush in full sun for best flowering results. They need at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily to thrive.
Choose well-draining soil since these plants hate wet feet. Sandy or rocky soil works great for bottlebrush in Texas conditions.
Water deeply but infrequently once established. These drought-tolerant plants prefer dry conditions between waterings.
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape. You can remove spent blooms to encourage more flowers throughout the growing season.
Space plants 4-6 feet apart since they can grow 6-10 feet tall and wide. Some varieties stay more compact for smaller gardens.
Bottlebrush works great as specimen plants, hedges, or mixed borders. They add year-round structure with their evergreen foliage.
35. Mimosa Tree (Albizia julibrissin)
The mimosa tree brings delicate pink starbursts to your Texas garden during summer months. These cheerful blooms cluster together and create a stunning display that handles intense heat well.
You’ll love how this fast-growing tree adapts to Texas conditions. It thrives in full sun and tolerates poor soil, making it perfect for challenging spots in your yard.
Plant your mimosa tree in well-draining soil during spring or fall. Choose a location with at least six hours of direct sunlight daily for the best flowering.
Water newly planted trees regularly until they establish roots. Once established, mimosa trees become quite drought tolerant and need minimal watering.
Prune your mimosa tree in late winter to maintain shape and remove dead branches. This timing prevents interference with the summer blooming period.
The tree produces attractive fern-like foliage that provides light shade. This feathery texture adds visual interest even when flowers aren’t present.
Watch for seed pods that develop after flowering. Remove them if you want to prevent self-seeding throughout your garden area.
Your mimosa tree will grow quickly and reach maturity within a few years. This makes it an excellent choice for new landscapes needing fast impact.
